Tinnitus

Tinnitus is the sound of ringing in the ears. It may also described as roaring, buzzing, hissing, or clicking inside the head. The sounds may come and go. Or they may be ongoing. The sound may occur in one or both ears, and vary in pitch.

How is tinnitus diagnosed?

The diagnosis of tinnitus includes a complete history and physical exam. Your health care provider may request an audiological evaluation. Depending on the suspected cause of the tinnitus, other tests may be needed.

How is tinnitus treated?

Your health care provider will figure out the best treatment based on:

How old you are

Your overall health and medical history

How sick you are

How well you can handle specific medications, procedures, or therapies

How long the condition is expected to last

Your opinion or preference

Currently, there is no known cure for tinnitus. However, experts suggest trying one of the following to find relief:

Hearing aids – These may benefit some people with tinnitus who have hearing loss. Using a hearing aid may make some sounds louder.

Cochlear implants – This option is for those who have tinnitus along with severe hearing loss.

Maskers – These provide help for some people by making tinnitus less noticeable. This small electronic device creates sound that may make the ringing or roaring seem softer.

Medications – Some medications may ease tinnitus by addressing a problem related to the condition. Medications may also improve mood or sleep.

Tinnitus retraining therapy – This therapy uses a combination of counseling and maskers. Otolaryngologists and audiologists can help a person learn how to deal with the tinnitus.

Counseling – A person with tinnitus may benefit from meeting with a counselor or support group.

Relaxation – This may provide relief for some people as stress may make tinnitus worse.

Related Specialties

Our Physicians

Main Line Health Physician Partner
Main Line Health Physician Partners is a clinically integrated network of physicians working together to improve the health and well-being of the community it servesLearn more about MLHPP

Primary Office:

1246 West Chester Pike, Suite 303
West Chester, PA 19382

Other Locations:

Main Line Health Physician Partner
Main Line Health Physician Partners is a clinically integrated network of physicians working together to improve the health and well-being of the community it servesLearn more about MLHPP

Primary Office:

Paoli Pointe, Suite 102
11 Industrial Boulevard
Paoli, PA 19301

Other Locations:

Main Line Health Physician Partner
Main Line Health Physician Partners is a clinically integrated network of physicians working together to improve the health and well-being of the community it servesLearn more about MLHPP

Primary Office:

Main Line Health Physician Partner
Main Line Health Physician Partners is a clinically integrated network of physicians working together to improve the health and well-being of the community it servesLearn more about MLHPP

Primary Office:

Main Line Health Physician Partner
Main Line Health Physician Partners is a clinically integrated network of physicians working together to improve the health and well-being of the community it servesLearn more about MLHPP

Primary Office:

Main Line Health Physician Partner
Main Line Health Physician Partners is a clinically integrated network of physicians working together to improve the health and well-being of the community it servesLearn more about MLHPP